IT’S an activity most people do without thinking, but scientists have revealed brushing teeth thoroughly with a special type of toothpaste could reduce the risks of heart attacks - and can even have a similar effect on the body as statins.

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The Florida Atlantic University study, led by Professor Dr Charles Hennekens, gave participants the same instructions on how to brush their teeth. They also gave the participants a 60-day supply of Plaque HD or a ‘normal’ toothpaste.

Researchers found that people using the special toothpaste were able to remove twice as much plaque than those using a normal toothpaste.

Their levels of inflammation also fell by 29 per cent, according to a report in the Telegraph.

Statins, medicine that can help lower the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood, lower inflammation by around 37 per cent.

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People using the special toothpaste were able to remove twice as much plaque

Experts have said Plaque HD is first toothpaste that reveals plaque so that it can be removed with directed brushing.

The formulation also contains cleaning agents that weaken the structure of the plaque and help to keep the teeth free from bacteria.

Dental plaque was identified by using a fluorescein mouth rinse and intraoral photographs were taken under black light imaging.

Professor Dr Charles Hennekens said: "While the findings on reducing dental plaque extend a previous observation, the findings on decreasing inflammation are new and novel."

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The study was puvlished in the American Journal of Medicine

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